Crucero por África Occidental: Culturas y Costas Salvajes

Crucero por África Occidental: Culturas y Costas Salvajes | Swan Hellenic

Expedition highlights

Along West Africa’s Atlantic edge, discovery comes through lived-in coastal culture, striking landscapes, and expert-led time outdoors in places that still feel rare.

Colonial Past

Walk districts where old trading routes left visible marks, from forts and warehouses to civic buildings and waterfront promenades.

Guided Walks

Coastal walks through dunes, cliffs, and historic quarters, paced for observation and led by experts who add context without overloading the day.

Nature & Wildlife Reserves

Explore the natural beauty of Africa, from island ecosystems to reserves and coastal habitats

African Traditions

Africa works best when it feels lived-in. Expect markets, craft, music, and small moments that explain how people actually live along these coasts.

Itinerario Día a Día

A lo largo de su expedición encontrará una serie de destinos fascinantes. Descubra Freetown, conocida por el Santuario de Chimpancés Tacugama y su rico patrimonio. Explore el encantador Archipiélago de las Bijagós con su exuberante biodiversidad y tesoros culturales. Al pasear por Elmina, el histórico castillo atestigua el conmovedor pasado de la zona, mientras que Abiyán revela su sólida escena artística. Cada parada profundiza en las historias no contadas de África Occidental. El itinerario está repleto de actividades estimulantes que prometen tanto iluminación como entretenimiento. Las excursiones en tierra le invitan a recorrer sitios históricos, observar vida salvaje increíble y disfrutar de relatos culturales. Explore ciudades vibrantes, deguste auténticas gastronomías locales y participe en talleres prácticos como la elaboración de batik o el toque de tambores tradicionales. Cada momento en este crucero de lujo transforma el viaje en un enriquecedor tapiz de recuerdos

NOTA: Este itinerario proporciona información general sobre cada destino. Tenga en cuenta que algunos de los lugares y puntos de interés mencionados pueden no estar abiertos o accesibles el día de nuestra visita. Para el programa de tour más preciso, le recomendamos contactar a su agente de Swan Hellenic o agencia de viajes más cerca de su fecha de salida.

Descripción

Día 1

Día 1. Tema (Acra)

Tema está a un corto trayecto de la acelerada capital de Ghana, Acra, una ciudad culturalmente rica, moderna e histórica a la vez. Fortificaciones europeas y los monumentos públicos de la Plaza de la Independencia Black Star ofrecen un atisbo del pasado. El barrio de Jamestown, una comunidad pesquera del siglo XVII con antiguas edificaciones coloniales, es su corazón, con una escena artística y bocados locales como waakye — arroz y frijoles con acompañamientos — en un modesto ‘chop bar’

Días 2-3

Día 2-3. Elmina

Recordatorio solemne del pasado, el Castillo de Elmina del siglo XV en Ghana fue un centro clave del comercio de esclavos, originalmente protegido para el comercio del oro antes de la implicación del comercio de esclavos neerlandés y británico. Este sitio de la UNESCO ejemplificó las contradicciones de la época, con europeos en lujosos aposentos sobre mazmorras de esclavos sucias y hacinadas. La infame Puerta sin retorno se abría a los barcos en el agotador Paso Medio

Actividades:

Incluido

Traditional music and dances on board

1 hora

Feel the beat of Ghana’s traditions as the rhythm of djembe drums fills the air. Witness lively dances and discover the Ashanti people’s folklore. Local artists will board the ship to enchant you with vibrant rhythms and movements, embodying the heartbeat of Ghana. Their colorful attire, expressive choreography and storytelling bring the country’s rich cultural heritage to life in unforgettable ways.

Opcional

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making

5 horas

Journey through centuries of heritage and craftsmanship on this guided tour. Explore the oldest colonial building in sub-Saharan Africa, Elmina’s Castle of St. George dating back to 1482, a key site in the transatlantic slave trade. Visit the local fish market and see traditional wooden boats. Drive to Global Mamas, where women are empowered through fair trade. Learn the art of batik-making, create your own design and take it home.

Incluido

Cape Coast Castle and drum dance

3 horas

Stand where African slaves once stood at UNESCO-listed Cape Coast Castle, a powerful symbol of resilience. It held more enslaved Africans than any other West African site. Delve into its history, from slave port to a moving museum. Witness the "Door of No Return" and tour the dungeons, walking in the footsteps of countless slaves. Finally, discover Ghanaian culture with traditional drumming and dance, telling stories through rhythm and movement.

Opcional

Kakum National Park's Canopy Walkway

4,5 horas

Soar above the treetops and journey inland to Kakum National Park, a sanctuary safeguarding Ghana's vanishing tropical guinea rainforest and rich wildlife. Walk along forest trails and cross Africa's renowned canopy walkway, 40 metres above the forest floor, offering stunning views from seven platforms and rope bridges. Keep your eyes peeled for birds and mammals camouflaged in the branches as you take in this awe inspiring perspective of nature.

Día 3

Día 3. Takoradi

Historically developed around its deep-water harbor built during the colonial era, Takoradi remains one of Ghana’s key maritime and commercial hubs, handling exports such as cocoa, timber and minerals while also serving the offshore oil and gas industry in the Gulf of Guinea. The city has a distinctly working-port character rather than a resort atmosphere, with busy fishing communities, open markets, palm-fringed beaches and a humid tropical climate. It also provides access to nearby heritage landmarks like Fort Metal Cross, one of several European forts scattered along the historic Gold Coast, reflecting the region’s layered colonial past and its continued economic importance within West Africa

Día 4

Día 4. Abiyán

Ciudad que late con energía, Abiyán, la antigua capital de Costa de Marfil, se erige como un centro de creatividad e innovación. La floreciente escena artística y musical se entreteje con las culturas, gastronomías y tradiciones que definen Abiyán. Sirviendo de ventana a África Occidental, el contagioso pulso tropical impregna la ciudad. La atmósfera única de Abiyán, sus galerías y mercados, junto con el fascinante Museo Nacional, la convierten en un destino cautivador

Actividades:

Opcional

Abidjan highlights, Bingerville garden and local gastronomy

5 h 50 min

Experience the essence of Abidjan, starting with a visit to Bingerville Botanical Garden, created by French Governor Gabriel Angoulvant. Explore its tropical plants, including food and medicinal species. Then, return to Abidjan for an Attieke tasting, a local dish made from fermented cassava. Visit the grand Cathedral of Saint Paul, designed by Aldo Spirito, and finish at Treichville market, where local cuisine, fresh produce, and spices await.

Incluido

Colonial Grand Bassam

5,5 horas

Step back in time and explore the colonial charm of Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the Ivory Coast capital, it blends European and African cultures. Stroll through the French colonial district, past landmarks like the Palais de Justice, Sacré Coeur cathedral, Governor "Binger's" Palace and the Ariane Monument. Visit the National Costume Museum to delve into Ivorian heritage, and end with craft shopping at the Artisanal Centre.

Día 5

Día 5. Día en el mar

Disfrute de su día en el mar aprovechando las instalaciones a bordo. Diríjase a la sauna, haga ejercicio en el gimnasio de última generación o relájese en el hidromasaje mientras contempla vistas increíbles durante la travesía. Si prefiere aprender un poco más sobre su entorno, asista a una charla informativa o converse con uno de nuestros expertos conocedores

Día 6

Día 6. Monrovia

Founded in the early 19th century and named after U.S. President James Monroe, Monrovia developed as a settlement for formerly enslaved people returning from the United States and remains the political, economic and cultural center of Liberia. The city stretches along a series of lagoons and peninsulas facing the Atlantic Ocean, with the Freeport of Monrovia serving as the country’s main maritime gateway for trade and imports, while districts such as West Point reflect its dense urban character and vibrant local life, and historic sites like Providence Island highlight its unique Americo-Liberian heritage, making Monrovia a place where coastal scenery, layered history and contemporary West African city life intersect

Actividades:

Incluido

Historical city tour of Monrovia

4 h 15 min

Explore Monrovia, Liberia’s capital founded in 1822, now a lively city rich in history and culture. Highlights include the Centennial Pavilion, National Museum, and Providence Island—the symbolic birthplace of the nation. The tour concludes at Providence Baptist Church, where Liberia’s independence was declared in 1847, offering a powerful glimpse into Africa’s oldest republic.

Opcional

Libassa Wildlife Sanctuary

5 h 15 min

Your tour begins at Monrovia’s port, heading to Libassa Ecolodge, a family-owned retreat built in harmony with Liberia’s tropical forest, lagoon, and ocean. A guided forest walk reveals rich biodiversity and eco-friendly design. The highlight is the Libassa Wildlife Sanctuary (Liwisa), Liberia’s first rescue center for confiscated and injured animals. Its mission blends rehabilitation, community employment, volunteer work, and education to protect Liberia’s wildlife and forests.

Día 7

Día 7. Día en el mar

Día 8

Día 8. Freetown

La ciudad portuaria capital de Sierra Leona ocupa una posición importante en la historia como hogar de personas anteriormente esclavizadas procedentes de Norteamérica y Gran Bretaña. Lugares como el Cotton Tree y la Puerta del King's Yard simbolizan el pasado sombrío de la ciudad. Freetown hoy es una ciudad diversa con un rico patrimonio: colorida arquitectura krio, una contundente gastronomía a base de arroz y playas animadas. En las cercanías, el Santuario de Chimpancés Tacugama rescata primates en peligro en un bosque tropical

Actividades:

Opcional

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

4,5 horas

Catch a glimpse of 100 rescued chimpanzees at Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, founded in 1995 by conservationists Bala and Sharmila Amarasekaran. Watch these playful creatures swinging from trees, nuzzling each other, and gently combing their fur. Discover the sanctuary's amazing work in providing a safe haven for mistreated chimpanzees, focusing on their rehabilitation and reintegration into the wild.

Opcional

Bunce Island

4 h 15 min

Reflect on the profound heritage of the transatlantic slave trade at Bunce Island, Sierra Leone's largest British slave castle, dating back to 1670. After a short drive and ferry ride, explore its haunting ruins, including the factory house, slave prison, watchtowers, and storerooms. Closed in 1808, it was once a major site for exporting African captives. Now in decay, the island's authenticity is enhanced by the greenery that has overtaken it.

Incluido

Freetown Historical City Tour

4,5 horas

Feel the weight of time as you explore Freetown’s landmarks, including the historic Cotton Tree, symbolizing the site where freed slaves settled in 1792. Visit the Peace & Cultural Monument, honoring Sierra Leone's independence and post-civil war transformation. Explore the Railway Museum, Fourah Bay College, and St. George's Cathedral. Dive into the National Museum, and pass by King's Yard, Fort Thornton, and the Presidential State House.

Día 9

Día 9. Día en el mar

Días 10-11

Día 10-11. Archipiélago de las Bijagós

El remoto Archipiélago de las Bijagós, frente a Guinea-Bisáu, comprende 88 islas con manglares, sabanas y bosques de palma, protegido como Reserva de la Biosfera por la UNESCO. Sus ecosistemas albergan especies en peligro como tortugas marinas verdes, hipopótamos de agua salada y manatíes africanos, además de 800.000 aves migratorias anuales. Intacto frente al turismo, el archipiélago ofrece playas prístinas y un rico patrimonio cultural, con raras costumbres matrilineales y ceremonias tradicionales.

Actividades:

Incluido

Expedition days in Bijagos Islands

The Bijagós Islands are an archipelago of approximately 88 islands located off the continental coast of Guinea-Bissau. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2025, the islands exemplify a harmonious interaction between the traditional, sustainable practices of the Bijagós people and the preservation of the region’s wild natural environment. We will spend two days in the Bijagós, landing on several islands to visit communities, explore the forests, and discover the mosaic of ecosystems that make up the archipelago. The exact landing sites will depend on local weather conditions at the time of arrival. Note: All landings and shore activities in the Bijagós are included — you do not need to book in advance.

Incluido

Expedition days in Bijagos Islands

Día 12

Día 12. Banjul

En el punto de encuentro del río Gambia y el Atlántico, la relajada capital de Gambia, Banjul, se asienta en una pequeña isla repleta de edificios coloniales y mercados vibrantes. El Mercado Alberto del siglo XIX vende recuerdos y la colorida vestimenta tradicional de los diversos grupos étnicos de Gambia, ofreciendo una vívida mirada a la vida local cotidiana

Actividades:

Incluido

Banjul Highlights

4,5 horas

Experience the vibrant spirit of The Gambia on an engaging city tour through Banjul, where you'll explore iconic landmarks such as the sacred Katchikally Crocodile Pool in Bakau—home to over 100 crocodiles for more than a century—before heading to bustling Serrekunda to witness traditional tye-and-dye techniques at a local Batik factory. As you pass the impressive Arch 22, built to commemorate the July 22nd Revolution, you'll continue to the National Museum for a deeper understanding of Gambian culture, traditions, and history. The tour concludes at the lively St. Albert Market, where you can observe daily life, browse local crafts, and even try your hand at bargaining for unique souvenirs.

Opcional

Estuary exploration in a local pirogue

5,5 horas

Sit back and unwind on a serene pirogue journey through the Gambian waterways. Glide along the River Gambia’s estuary and tributaries, watching for bird species and wildlife like kingfishers, herons, and monkeys in the mangroves. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on board, with opportunities to swim, fish, or bask in the sun. Don’t forget your binoculars for bird watching and a towel for swimming.

Opcional

Makasutu Cultural Forest Adventure

5,5 horas

Walk on the wild side in Makasutu Cultural Forest, exploring diverse ecosystems—forest, savannah, and mangroves—home to wildlife like monkeys, lizards, and baboons. Start with traditional dance and drumming under a baobab tree, then enjoy a dugout canoe ride along scenic waterways, watching oyster collectors at work. A guided bush walk reveals vibrant flora and fauna before meeting the Marabout Man, who makes wine from palm sap.

Incluido

Discover the Rich Cultural Tapestry of The Gambia - Show on board

1 hora

Let the sounds of local instruments transport you to the heart of The Gambia's cultural heritage, where nine ethnic groups come to life with their unique languages, attire, and music. Experience the rhythms of the Mandinka's Kora, the Fulani's Riti, the Jola's Balafon and the Djembe drums. Masterfully played by Griots, oral historians within each group, these instruments bring the rich traditions of The Gambia to life.

Días 13-14

Día 13-14. Dakar

Fabulosos museos, una floreciente escena artística y elegantes restaurantes junto al mar muestran la rica cultura de Dakar y su visión de futuro. El bullicioso barrio tradicional de la Medina, con sus mezquitas, teterías y mercados callejeros, contrasta con la arquitectura y la gastronomía de influencia francesa de la capital senegalesa. Artesanías tradicionales como tallas de madera y pinturas se venden en el mercado de Soumbédioune, lo que lo convierte en la parada perfecta para llevarse un recuerdo

Actividades:

Opcional

Safari at Bandia Natural Reserve ending at airport (for disembarking guests with late flights)

5 horas

Discover the wildlife of West Africa at the Bandia Conservation Park, a small natural reserve situated 1h30 drive from the port of Dakar. Bandia has a micro system thanks to which we can appreciate the diversity of typical Sahelian flora, huge baobabs, thorny bushes or whimsical lianas. It is also a heaven for wildlife since, with the exception of the big carnivores, you will be able to see most of the best-known Western Africa animals like for example white rhinoceros, zebra, giraffe, buffalo, gazelle and many other species. Upon arrival at the reserve, embark on a 1,5hr 4x4 game drive accompanied by a specialized guide. After admiring the wildlife, drive approx 30mn to reach Dakar airport.

Incluido

Safari at Bandia Natural Reserve and Somone Lagoon (with lunch)

8 h 15 min

Incluido

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

4 horas

Escape the buzz of Dakar and immerse yourself in the tranquil village of Gorée Island, a UNESCO site once central to the transatlantic slave trade. Take the ferry to this historic island, home to 1,300 residents and colorful ochre houses. Explore the museum at Fort Estrée, visit the House of Slaves, and walk the cliffside trails, including the Gorée Almadies monument. Wander the colonial-era alleys for a moving journey through history.

Opcional

UNESCO Goree Island and vibrant Dakar

8 horas

This tour includes a ferry ride to the historic UNESCO-listed Gorée Island with visits to the House of Slaves and the Fort of Estrée, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. After returning to Dakar, you’ll enjoy a city tour covering key landmarks such as the Cathedral of African Memory, Independence Square, and the African Renaissance Monument. The tour is mostly on foot and varies in length depending on ferry schedules and traffic.

Formas infinitas para pasar su día

No existe algo así como un día típico con Swan Hellenic. Le ofrecemos infinitas posibilidades para adaptar cada momento a sus intereses y estado de ánimo, de modo que siempre disfrutará del día de sus sueños a bordo.

SH Diana de un vistazo

Crucero boutique

Los interiores a medida de SH Diana son espaciosos y de buen gusto, con mobiliario lujoso y ventanales de suelo a techo que le ofrecen vistas despejadas de algunos de los paisajes más increíbles del mundo. Líneas audaces y limpias se combinan con madera, metal y tejidos naturales para crear una comodidad casual.

Excelencia culinaria

La comida excepcional forma parte de su experiencia de viaje boutique. Prepárese para explorar la excelencia gastronómica mientras los chefs de renombre mundial de Swan Hellenic le conducen en un viaje culinario internacional.

Belleza y spa

Elija entre tratamientos de belleza y bienestar, incluidos masajes y cuidados corporales inspirados en Bali. Es una manera muy agradable de recuperarse entre los desembarcos.

Fitness y sauna

Nuestro gimnasio de última generación dispone de todo lo necesario para un entrenamiento revitalizante, desde máquinas cardiovasculares hasta bandas elásticas y pesas libres. Disfrute de sesiones con entrenadores personales y relájese en la sauna con vistas.

Descubrimientos a bordo

Sumérjase en la naturaleza, la historia y la cultura de cada lugar que visite en su crucero con sesiones informativas especiales, conferencias y presentaciones. Nuestros experimentados guías de expedición harán que su tiempo a bordo sea fascinante e instructivo.

Entorno envolvente

Ya busque un momento de reflexión tranquila, una oportunidad para recargar energías o la posibilidad de investigar las maravillas del mundo natural, SH Diana ofrece una variedad de espacios relajantes y rejuvenecedores para que su viaje con nosotros sea verdaderamente inolvidable.

Servicio personal

Swan Hellenic se basa en el servicio personal y la hospitalidad genuina. Nuestra tripulación cálida y acogedora busca su satisfacción y no escatima esfuerzo para ofrecerle la mejor experiencia posible.

Su hogar lejos de casa

Relájese en la elegancia discreta de su camarote o suite. Una combinación sofisticada de tonos suaves, texturas naturales y tecnología intuitiva: el diseño de inspiración escandinava integra sin esfuerzo el mundo natural con comodidades excepcionales.

SH Diana de un vistazo

Crucero boutique

Excelencia culinaria

Belleza y spa

Elija entre tratamientos de belleza y bienestar, incluidos masajes y cuidados corporales inspirados en Bali. Es una manera muy agradable de recuperarse entre los desembarcos.

Crucero por África Occidental: Culturas y Costas Salvajes

Crucero por África Occidental: Culturas y Costas Salvajes

Expedition highlights

Colonial Past

Guided Walks

Nature & Wildlife Reserves

African Traditions

Itinerario Día a Día

Descripción

Día 1. Tema (Acra)

Día 2-3. Elmina

Actividades:

Traditional music and dances on board

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making

Cape Coast Castle and drum dance

Kakum National Park's Canopy Walkway

Día 3. Takoradi

Día 4. Abiyán

Actividades:

Abidjan highlights, Bingerville garden and local gastronomy

Colonial Grand Bassam

Día 5. Día en el mar

Día 6. Monrovia

Actividades:

Historical city tour of Monrovia

Libassa Wildlife Sanctuary

Día 7. Día en el mar

Día 8. Freetown

Actividades:

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Bunce Island

Freetown Historical City Tour

Día 9. Día en el mar

Día 10-11. Archipiélago de las Bijagós

Actividades:

Expedition days in Bijagos Islands

Expedition days in Bijagos Islands

Día 12. Banjul

Actividades:

Banjul Highlights

Estuary exploration in a local pirogue

Makasutu Cultural Forest Adventure

Discover the Rich Cultural Tapestry of The Gambia - Show on board

Día 13-14. Dakar

Actividades:

Safari at Bandia Natural Reserve ending at airport (for disembarking guests with late flights)

Safari at Bandia Natural Reserve and Somone Lagoon (with lunch)

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

UNESCO Goree Island and vibrant Dakar

Formas infinitas para pasar su día

SH Diana de un vistazo

Crucero boutique

Excelencia culinaria

Belleza y spa

Fitness y sauna

Descubrimientos a bordo

Entorno envolvente

Servicio personal

Su hogar lejos de casa

Camarotes

Con vistas al mar

Balcón

Suite Junior

Suite

Suite Premium

Expedition highlights

Colonial Past

Guided Walks

Nature & Wildlife Reserves

African Traditions

SH Diana de un vistazo

Crucero boutique

Excelencia culinaria

Belleza y spa

Fitness y sauna

Descubrimientos a bordo

Entorno envolvente

Servicio personal

Su hogar lejos de casa